* Before leaving your driveway, make sure your tires are properly inflated. Under- or over-inflated tires can reduce the gripping action of tires because the tread won't meet the road surface as it was designed to do.
* Use dedicated snow and ice tires, like the Bridgestone Blizzak, when living in an area where adverse precipitation is a certainty. Snow and ice tires have a special tread compound and a unique tread design to increase road-gripping abilities. Install snow tires on all four wheels, not just your driving wheels.
* Kick the snow off of your shoes before getting into your vehicle. When snow melts, it can create moisture buildup and cause windows to fog.
* Avoid harsh use of your brakes while driving. However, if you need to make an emergency stop in a car equipped with an Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), firmly press the pedal down and hold it to the floor.
* Never use your cell phone when driving -; even if you use a hands-free model when in the car. When maneuvering through ice or snow, you will need to completely focus on driving safely.
* As an extra precaution, it's a good idea to store the name and telephone number of an emergency contact in your cell phone under the acronym "ICE" -; which stands for "in case of emergency." Doing this will help rescue personnel quickly locate a friend or family member during an emergency.
